West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made a significant visit to the site of the ongoing junior doctors’ protest on Saturday, expressing solidarity and promising action in response to their demands. Addressing the doctors amid the rain, Banerjee emphasized that she was there as their ‘didi’ (elder sister) rather than in her official capacity, demonstrating a personal commitment to resolving the crisis.
The Chief Minister’s visit follows a recent delay in a scheduled meeting at the state secretariat, Nabanna, where she waited for two hours to engage with the agitating doctors. During her visit, Banerjee assured the doctors that their grievances would be addressed and that action would be taken if anyone was found guilty in connection with the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
In a decisive move, Banerjee announced the immediate dissolution of patient welfare committees at all state-run hospitals, aiming to enhance security and address the concerns raised by the medical professionals.
“This is my last attempt to resolve the crisis,” Banerjee declared, urging the doctors to cease their protest. Despite her assurances, the doctors have stated that they will not compromise on their demands until comprehensive discussions are held, including improved security measures and the removal of certain officials.
The protesting doctors remain stationed outside Swasthya Bhawan, Kolkata, awaiting further resolution.
